Fifty one years on, it’s iconic for so many reasons in both technique and subject—this BAFTA Award nominated film captures the essence and texture of the 1958 Coupe des Alpes, and more broadly, a re-building Europe.

“Got it, race-cars, so what?” you say. Well. Aside from this being an excellent reference for period design, and camera… (Best just watch the movie and not waste your time on my inarticulate sputtering about why this worth your time)… There is charm and intimacy imparted to the event here in lush, un-hurried storytelling that doesn’t exist in today’s short-form highlight ‘packages’ that you’ll see on broadcast… No bleating background music, no chase-helicopters, no feigned drama or commercial breaks…

It’s pure.

Categorical golden ages are usually obvious only when they’ve passed. Their real measure seems to include a rise where all the supporting bits and pieces shine superlatively as well. The associated fashion, typography, industrial design, etc.

It’s all here.

Autoracing was hitting a style-peak in the late fifties, early sixties, and here’s a great window to enjoy it.

Without further ado – (Best in HQ mode) :